We all know that receiving a wedding invitation is always a joyful moment, even more if it includes a request to be a bridesmaid or maid of honor. However, once the immediate joy subsides, an obvious question arises subconsciously, “what do I wear?”. Because the looks for bridesmaids and guests need to obey to strict rules which you need to be aware of if you are going to be attending a wedding.

Looks for Bridesmaids and wedding guests: 5 main rules to follow

Whether you are a bridesmaid, maid of honor, or a guest, there are some rules that should be followed to look impeccable. Starting from the following five.

1. Color

The rules of etiquette have totally prohibit the following colors: white, black (unless it is an evening reception, or for an elder women), red and any colors that are too bright.

2. Length

It is important to not select dresses that are too short. Knee height, below the knee or evening floor length gowns are all acceptable.

3. Accessories

Of course your chosen look should be accentuated by accessories, however here too it is best to not be over the top.

4. Neckline

Always try to be tasteful. It is acceptable to show some cleavage, but always within limits, even more if you will be attending a religious ceremony.

5. Wedding Theme

Generally it is not required to include the dress code with the wedding invitations, however if the bride and groom want to create a particular theme for their wedding it should absolutely be mentioned. In these cases, you have to make your look match the theme.

Bridesmaid or Maid of Honor: the differences in dress code

Whether you are a bridesmaid or the maid of honor, when deciding on your look, the primary thing you need to keep in mind is that you have to be more elegant than the other guests. Why? Simple, because you role during the big day is very important.

The main difference in the following. If you are a bridesmaid, the color and dress type of your outfit – generally a floor length gown – are selected directly by the bride to fit in with the wedding theme and the dresses of the other bridesmaids. Instead, if you are the maid of honor, you have slightly more freedom, however it is always recommended to ask the bride to be for her input.

The most appropriate colors for the dresses are pale, such as pastels or of a strong color but in a toned down shade. Avoid any whimsical fabric. All finished with the right elegant accessory, like that perfect heel, always preferable to a sandal, even in summer.

If you are a wedding guest?

Even in this case, choosing the right look starts with having good taste. Always remember that the star of the day is only one person: the bride. To look impeccable, just remember these three rules:

• If the reception is in the evening, go for a floor length or cocktail dress.
• If there is a religious ceremony, make sure your shoulders are covered with a jacket.
• Only wear a hat to formal ceremonies and only if the mother of the bride is wearing one.
• Go for pastel or earth tones.

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